A new appeal has been launched by Hereford Cathedral, as around £1.4 million is urgently needed to restore the roof of the cathedral’s north transept.

Revd Michael Tavinor, Dean of Hereford. said ‘We always knew that the roofs would be one of the next great projects, however, over the past 12 months the lead panels which make up the north transept roof have deteriorated faster than we had expected.’

‘The lead has slipped, opening up holes in the roof, which we have been able to temporary repair, and now we have to strip it all off and replace it with new. Unfortunately, during big storms water still gets into the building and at times you can see it staining the vault roof below - it can be very visible from ground level when you stand inside the transept.’

‘We have been working on the funding package and have been very fortunate to receive a grant of £100,000 from the Wolfson Foundation and Pilgrim Trust, through the Cathedrals Fabric Commission for England, and a further grant from the Mappa Mundi Trust. We do, however, need the support of the community to raise the final £50,000 and we hope as many as possible will help us!’

The appeal, which is to raise £50,000 has been launched and all contributes are greatly welcome. Those who are able to give £100 or more will be Patrons of the appeal and can choose to have up to five initials added to a special commemorative plaque. The plaque will be commissioned to mark the work done and celebrate those who have contributed to the restoration.